“It’s sort of bittersweet because I was excited for the finale, but I’m kinda sad that it’s over,” he shares. “I really enjoyed being part of the team and I’d really love if they’d have me back.”

Though nothing is set in stone, Mario does know one thing: Who should replace L.A.

"I’ve been campaigning for my girl Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas,” he tells Life & Style. “I think she would be awesome. We've been friends for a long time and I think she's a talented and I think she'd be an awesome judge/mentor. She's cool and hip and I think the kids would really respond to her and like her."

For now, the Extra host is concentrating on welcoming 2013 – and his relationship with Courtney Mazza, whom he married earlier this month.

“I’m going to be working on New Years Eve. We are going to NYC to do a campaign out there and some stuff for Fox, too,” he says. “Courtney will be with me! We’re going to keep the act together on the road.”